You don’t have to have a motorcycle to enjoy the festivities and fundraising at this year’s Ride Into History in Fort Langley.
The July 24 and 25 event is built around a motorcycle ride on Saturday the 25th. The event attracts motorcycle riders from around the Lower Mainland, and raises funds for the Salvation Army’s Gateway of Hope shelter in Langley City.
The Gateway of Hope acts as a homeless shelter and runs programs to help get people off the streets, train them for jobs, and find them permanent housing.
As with last year, the Ride Into History this year will stretch over two days, said Gateway’s Troy Gaglardi, co-chair of the event.
“Last year we saw great success with the Friday evening Cruise ’n’ Concert and the Saturday Scenic Ride and Dinner Banquet,” said Gaglardi. “We are looking to see it grow even further in 2015. The Greater Vancouver Motorcycle Club, Harley Owners Group Langley, ThunderKings Motor Association and North Langley Riders are a few of the motorcycle clubs that have committed riders and volunteers for the weekend events.”
On Friday, July 24, the Cruise ’n’ Concert will feature classic cars and motorcycles, along with music by the SeaBilly’s and Randy “Elvis” Friskie. Food trucks, an ice cream truck, and the Fort Langley Lisons will be at the Fort Langley National Historic Site to provide dinner options and snacks.
The gates for classic cars and motorcycles open at 5 p.m. off Mary Avenue, and the concert starts at 6:30 p.m.
“Don’t have a classic car or motorcycle? Don’t worry”, said Gaglardi. “Bring your lawn chair or a picnic blanket and be a part of this great event supporting those in need in our own backyard.”
Saturday begins with an 8 a.m. pancake breakfast provided by the Fort Langley Lions in the orchard at the National Historic Site.
Registration for the ride also opens at 8 a.m., and pre-registration for the limited number of spots is also available online at rideintohistory.ca.
There will be a riders meeting at 9:40 a.m., and the ride leaves at 10 a.m.
The cruise through the Fraser Valley will stop at scenic spots and features a picnic lunch. There is a Milestones dinner banquet waiting for the returning riders.
The cost of the ride itself is $65.